The Discoteks July 27
Van Halen Nation July 26
Gilligan Yacht Rock June 27
Hobbits Would Approve
Hello, dear readers. I have to admit, my favorite summer pastime is reading. Indoors. With air conditioning. So, imagine my surprise when our editor, Karin, asked me to cover local adventures in our July Explore Issue. Her response was, “That's exactly why you're the perfect person to remind our readers how enjoyable it is to explore close to home!” And I’m so glad she did. The truth is, I enjoy adventure, but I needed some encouragement. Pack sunscreen and a GPS app on the ready, and you're good to go.
Start slowly with a casual walk at the Newlin Grist Mill. Eight miles of trails, 160 acres of woods, streams, and the mill wheel that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook – it's gorgeous. There is something grounding about walking among the old structures, like you’re stepping into the past, but with an iced coffee in hand.
Next on my bucket list: the Rose Valley Museum at Thunderbird Lodge. A utopian artist colony? In DELCO ? Between the Rose Valley pottery and handcrafted furniture, you'll be deeply inspired by the pure spirit of these artists. While Newlin Grist Mill was a story of labor and legacy, Rose Valley is like stepping into a dream of what community could be, a collective belief that beauty belongs in daily life.
And then, if you are feeling a bit braver, you can go a little farther. Sun Retreats Lancaster County is the worthy spot for glamping. The last time I went camping, glamping wasn't even a word. Now glamping, this is something I could get used to! It's no wonder this spot is ranked #3 in the country.
Somewhere along the way, I was reminded of what J.R.R. Tolkien wrote: “The world is not in your books and maps. It’s out there.” And it’s true – I stepped away from my favorite indoor hobby to find something (shockingly) equally satisfying outdoors, and a reminder that a little sunlight and movement go a long way.
So, if you’re someone who typically sticks to air conditioning like I did, I encourage you to try something new. You don’t have to go rock-climbing or go off-grid. Just pick a place, grab a snack, and explore. You might be surprised by what you rediscover about yourself.
Here’s to a summer of saying "Yes!" to adventures.
STEPHANIE HWANG, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Scott Davidson | scott.davidson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Stephanie Hwang | stephanie.hwang@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Ed Ryder | ideamaned@yahoo.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amanda Mottola, Tony Shahan
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Media Spring Art Show on State Street 1: Artist Ellen Reuben creates a series of ceramic figures called “The Creeples” 2: Shanthi Manickman shares her oil and acrylic paintings. shanthimanickam.com 3: Local artist Gary Rothera mixed media creations using found items. garcreations2014.wixsite.com 4: Mixed media painter Gretchen Ann Bidic. gretchenannefinearts.com 5: Mixed media art from Patrick Hay of Sixth Son Studios. sixthsonstudios.com 6: Harriet Hill’s paintings of bold colors and playful designs. harrietspaintings.com 7: Colorful stained glass by Trisha Flaherty p atriciaflahertyart.com Photography by Scott Davidson
Dr. Bob
Dr. Alexa
Dr. Dan
Dr. Jarred
business monthly
Meet Ryan - Your Hearthside Guide to All Things Cozy
Chimney Cricket and Hometown Hearth welcome Ryan Holsten to the family! With a proven track record in relationship-driven sales and a passion for helping people feel at home, Ryan brings a warm, solutions-focused approach to every interaction. Whether you’re exploring your first fireplace or upgrading a beloved hearth, Ryan’s is available to guide you with expertise, care, and a neighborly smile. Be sure to say hello when you stop by the showroom in Media! hometownhearth.com
Community Giving Surges as Delco Gives Tops $2.2 Million
The Foundation for Delaware County announced that the second annual Delco Gives raised over $2.2 million from more than 11,500 donors, benefiting 306 nonprofits. This year’s event included Dining Under the Stars with 6abc’s Cecily Tynan and performances by Maci Lago, Next Gen Theatre, Strath Haven High School Silvertones, and the Media Theatre. The celebration concluded May 9th at Rose Tree Park with FOX-29’s Jenn Frederick. delcogives.org
Child Guidance Resource Centers appoints Lisa Cadorette Roberts as President & CEO
Child Guidance Resource Centers (CGRC), a nonprofit providing mental and behavioral health services to children and families, has named Lisa Cadorette Roberts as its new President & CEO. A lifelong Delaware County resident, Lisa brings over 35 years of nonprofit leadership experience in healthcare and higher education. A Neumann University graduate, she has served on several local boards and recently stepped down from CGRC’s Board of Directors to take on this new leadership role. cgrc.com
Grains of the Past
DISCOVER 300 YEARS OF HISTORY AND 160 ACRES OF NATURE AT NEWLIN GRIST MILL
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HWANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDWARD RYDER
Tucked away in Glen Mills, Newlin Grist Mill is one of the oldest operating mills in North America, where the past continues to turn quite literally. The mill has operated for 300 of the last 325 years, rich in history and still water-powered. It’s a landmark where history, nature, and community come together across 160 acres of preserved land.
From its founding in 1704 to its commercial operation through 1941, Newlin Grist Mill served the local community and played a vital role in the international flour trade. It exported flour to destinations as far as the Caribbean, Canada, the Southern colonies, and even the northern Mediterranean. “We focus on the story of the mill from 1740–1765, which is a time critical to the growth of American trade but often overlooked as primitive technology,” explains Tony Shahan, the Executive Director of Newlin Grist Mill.
In 1956, the mill was purchased by a ninth-generation Newlin descendant and reopened in 1960 as a museum. Since then, it has evolved into an educational and environmental destination that welcomes over 60,000 visitors annually. Newlin Mill has a dual mission of historic preservation and environmental conservation that guides the management of important cultural and natural resources,
including 12 historic structures, countless building ruins and archaeological features, 8.5 miles of trails, and 160 acres of outdoor museum and open space.
Visitors can walk through woodlands, meadows, wetlands, and creeks while encountering structures and artifacts that reveal layers of American history. Outdoor classrooms such as the Frog Pond, Forest, Creek, Meadow, and new Wetland areas are the stages for nature-based education programs for children and adults. They can be experienced within Summer Discovery Camp, school partnerships, and community service projects that allow visitors of all ages to participate in habitat restoration and invasive species management.
“Our immersion experience opportunities invite the public into the process of historic preservation and environmental conservation,” says Shahan. In 2024, approximately 550 individuals and 36 volunteer groups contributed over 6,600 hours to programming, events, maintenance, and operations, including mill tours, public lectures, picnic areas, historic dinners, special events, formal photography, and the annual trail run.
Here is a list of events not to miss that are coming up in July and the rest of the year:
• Millwright Shop Water Wheel Rebuild – Fridays & Saturdays, 10am–3pm
• Blacksmith Shop Demos – Saturdays, 10am–3pm
• Public Archaeology Days – July 19 & October 18
• Kitchen Encounters (Trimble Kitchen) – September 6, October 18, November 15
• Bird Walks – July 26, August 30, September 27, October 25, November 29, December 20
• Happy Hours with Deer Creek Malthouse – Thursdays in September & October, 5–8pm
These experiences are central to Newlin’s programming, which features hands-on experimental archaeology projects like the Millwright Shop, where staff and volunteers are rebuilding a 15.5-foot water wheel using 18th-century tools and techniques. Historic foodways are demonstrated in Trimble Kitchen, a restored 1739 hearth and pantry. During Public Archaeology Days,
guests can work alongside professionals and avocational archaeologists to explore and document the site’s buried past. In addition to the historical attractions, Newlin offers guided bird walks, which take visitors through diverse habitats to observe native and migrating bird species.
The spirit of shared stewardship is celebrated regularly through events that bring people together, such as Happy Hours with Deer Creek Malthouse, complete with live music by JP McGrath and food from Il Brothers Pizza, who donate 10% of orders to support the Mill.
“The two things visitors comment on most are the beauty of the landscape, including the well-maintained diverse habitats and trail systems, and the passion and expertise of the staff and volunteers on the site,” Shahan proudly notes.
Looking ahead, Newlin Grist Mill will play a key role in the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026 with the reassembly of the Newlin Log House – a project born from a successful preservation effort in 2021. As Newlin Grist Mill continues to evolve, it remains welcoming to all. It beckons us to rediscover nature, community, and the steadfast grains of the past that shaped them.
newlingristmill.org
Plant S.O.S.
Don’t Give Up
ARTICLE BY AMANDA MOTTOLA, LEAFY CHARACTERS
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY AMANDA MOTTOLA
If you are just jumping into the world of house plants, it can be overwhelming to try and understand what they need. The Peace Lily is a great beginners’ plant for many reasonsit is easy to read the signs when they are not thriving.
Overall Tips for House Plants
First, check the moisture level of the soil. Touch the soil to see if it is wet or dry. Overwatering can look very similar to under-watering. Determining if the plant has too much or not enough water is crucial. Making sure your plants have proper drainage in their pot is crucial to root health.
step one:
This Peace Lily is in desperate need of help. A friend could not get back home to water. The leaves are now drooping and crispy.
Don’t worry, if there is green, there is something to save!
step two:
Next, use clean shears to prune any leaves that are yellow or black. Removing them from the plant can help them focus energy to healthier leaves. To clean your shears, use hydrogen peroxide. Where you cut will depend on what type of plant you are working with. For the Peace Lily, you want to follow the leaf down to the “petiole.“ The petiole looks like a stem but in fact it is the structure of the plant that connects the blade of the leaf to the stem. In peace lilies, you follow the petiole down to the main stem. Only cut the petiole of the problem leaf.
step three:
Lastly, place your plant in a sunny location of your home - but no direct sun unless this is how it was raised. The sun is how our house plants get their energy, and energy is an extremely helpful resource in the healing process.
LEARN MORE: Leafy Characters is a Delaware County registered nursery dealer, focused on helping new plant parents get to know their houseplants. We host workshops and classes on plant care as well as providing high quality beginner friendly houseplants. Everyone can have a green thumb!
Take clean shears and carefully cut away each dead leaf.
step three step two 1 2 3
step one
Determine the cause of the plant’s decline to better address the problem.
Provide an ideal area for your plant to recover.
ARTICLE BY CHEYENNE FORBES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED RYDER
HEARTWORK COLLECTIVE
Rose Valley - Where craftsmanship and community were inseparable
The Rose Valley Museum, in Thunderbird Lodge, holds an extraordinary history of this area of Media. It started out as a collection of mills and workers' cottages. In 1901, architect William Lightfoot Price bought over 30 acres along with the old buildings. Inspired by the book “News from Nowhere” by William Morris, a leader of the Arts & Crafts Movement in England, Price started a utopian community similar to Morris’ description.
The Arts & Crafts Movement was a reaction to the industrial revolution and the losing of individual artistic expression. Price wasn’t just inspired by Morris, he wanted to support artists and culture wholeheartedly. He repurposed an old bank barn into two large artist studios, one each for Alice Barber Stephens and Charles Stephens; renowned illustrators in Philadelphia at the turn of the century. He then connected the studios to an Arts & Crafts home by way of an octagonal stairway.
Charles Stephens was a respected scholar of Native American culture, and he named the home Thunderbird Lodge; a reference to the Thunderbird which is a powerful symbol in Native American folklore. CONTINUED >
Rose Valley Museum’s president, Sue Keilbaugh, tells us that Thunderbird Lodge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, just a year after the museum was founded, and is considered to be Price's finest example of a home reflecting the Arts & Crafts philosophy.
“The Arts and Crafts community lost its leader in 1916 when Price passed away,” says Keilbaugh, “but the spirit and much of the philosophy of the original community are still present.”
Afterwards, the lodge earned a pair of new owners; Mildred and Alan Olmsted. Mildred is known as one of the founders of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, and Alan is one of the originators of the ACLU-PA. In 2015, when Thunderbird Lodge was given to a non-profit, the Rose Valley Centennial Foundation accepted the property on the condition that the Rose Valley Museum would occupy the building and make it a sustainable entity.
According to Keilbaugh, visitors are most often surprised at the volume and variety of history associated with the building and the borough. “Visitors are intrigued by Thunderbird Lodge itself, and its collection of art, Rose Valley furniture, pottery
and the stories of the people who built the community,” says Keilbaugh. “It all depends upon the interests of the visitor.”
There are a number of things to do! Though it is a small museum, a guided tour can take 2 hours, because there is a lot of information to share. The volunteers are passionate about this place.
The museum now has the largest collection of Rose Valley Shops furniture (from 1901 to 1906) and Rose Valley pottery (from 1904 to 1905) in the world, and people are able to admire the artistry and craftsmanship that has gone into them. On open weekends, the museum offers an event—a lecture or a workshop—in an effort to serve and engage the community. They also hold garden parties and picnics annually throughout the month of May. These parties are planned around families, so bring the little ones for a lovely outing. In December, the museum opens up the holidays with Christmas carols and tree. Generally open one weekend a month, you can always book an appointment. A 1 hour tour of the Museum along with the current exhibit in the lower studio comes with the price of admission.
Rose Valley is packed with rich history and beautiful pieces of art. “I think our Board would agree that the Museum is reminding the community of the extraordinary history that led to the neighborhood that is Rose Valley today,” says Keilbaugh. “We are gratified by the involvement and appreciation of so many in Rose Valley and beyond who participate in and support the museum.”
rosevalleymuseum.org
Camp Luxuriously at Sun Retreat
Rated #3 of America’s top campgroundsenjoy nature nearby
True luxury reveals itself in the moments where everything feels taken care of. Voted 2025’s #3 campground in the nation by Campspot, Sun Retreats Lancaster County is the perfect destination that meets your needs before you name them. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or pets, Sun Retreats offers modern cabins, whimsical cottages, and classic RV and tent sites for every type of glamping stay. Enjoy days that flow between activity and rest: paddle across the lake, play mini golf, cool off in the indoor/outdoor pool, then grab a bite at the café and wind down by the fire. Thoughtful amenities and understated charm make it feel personal. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or the whole season, you’ll want to stay longer than you planned. sunoutdoors.com/pennsylvania/sun-retreats-lancaster-county
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE
DRINKS UP
Crafting Cocktails with Fresh Garden Ingredients
Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
LIME MINT
OSE
MOJITO
Ingredients:
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)
Instructions: Muddle:
Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.
ROSEMARY GRAPEFRUIT
PEAR FIZZ
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 sprig of Rosemary
• Sparkling water
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice
Instructions:
Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
&BERRY SANGRIA
A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha)
• ½ cup brandy or rum
• ½ cup elderflower liqueur
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
Instructions:
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix.Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 6TH & 20TH
The Gifford-Risley House - Sunday Tea
THE GIFFORD-RISLEY HOUSE, 430 N. MONROE ST., MEDIA, PA 19063
Inspired by a traditional English tea time, enjoy a delightful afternoon tea service with classic homemade assorted tea sandwiches and sweets, with a variety of herbal or fruity teas in our elegant Victorian-inspired 1877 Gothic Revival-Chalet style Bed & Breakfast. Enjoy themed events: Celebration of the 4th 07/06, Peach Tea Day 07/20. gifford-risleyhouse.com
JULY 9TH - 12TH
Conversations with Miranda
PLAYERS CLUB OF SWARTHMORE, 614 FAIRVIEW Rd., SWARTHMORE, PA 19081
Stephen Childs lives between two realms: the present and an afterlife shared with his late wife, Miranda. Driven to reconnect with Stephen and their son, Miranda’s journey explores love, faith, and redemption. Conversations With Miranda, inspired by true events, blends tenderness, humor, and insight into mortality, eternity, and the unseen space between—a moving testament to everlasting love. pcstheater.org
JULY 11TH
MAC Twilight Music Series: Brazilian Samba & Bossa Nova
THE COMMUNITY CENTER LAWN, MONROE ST., (BETWEEN 3RD & 4TH STREETS)
MAC is introducing the Twilight Music Series. A free evening of music once a month on The Green at the Media Community Center Lawn on Monroe street. Bring a lawn chair
This magazine exists because Scott said ‘Yes.’
Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.
Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?
Media City Lifestyle
Published by Scott Loved by Media
FEELING TIRED AND OVERWEIGHT ?
CONTINUED
or blanket or just relax on the lawn. Bring a picnic dinner and have some fun with another fun MAC event in everybody’s hometown. Beer tent open during event. mediaartscouncil.org
JULY 13TH
Tyler Arboretum Guided Discovery Tour
TYLER ARBORETUM, 515 PAINTER RD., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 9:30 AM
Discover Tyler Arboretum’s journey from its origins to its role as a living museum. Explore highlights like the Fragrant Garden, Edible Garden, and Native Woodland Walk. Learn about diverse plant collections, trail systems, and tips for exploring. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning guest, this guided tour offers a perfect introduction to everything the Arboretum has to offer. tylerarboretum.org
JULY 14TH
CAC Annual Members Exhibition Artists Reception
COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER, 414 PLUSH MILL RD., WALLINGFORD, PA 19086 | 6:00 PM
Come meet the Community Arts Center member artists at this reception. Enjoy art from various mediums: photography, textiles, pottery, paintings and more not previously shown at the CAC. Vote for your best in show. Light refreshments will be served. Free and Open to the Public. communityartscenter.org
JULY 27TH
Media VFW Sunday Breakfast Buffet
MEDIA VFW POST 3460, 11 HILLTOP AVE., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 8:00 AM
The last Sunday of each month, the Media VFW hosts a breakfast buffet open to the public - featuring classic breakfast items like French toast, home fries, and made to order omelettes. Support our vets and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Bring your family and friends. 8:00 till 11:00am. vfw3460.com
Riddle Village offers a comprehensive Lifecare contract, so our residents can embrace retirement living with confidence. With predictable costs for future long-term care, our community provides a plan for your future, allowing you to focus on living life to the fullest every day.
Enjoy luxury amenities and services, such as, weekly housekeeping, indoor garage parking, flexible dining plan with access to four unique restaurants and full-service bar, nine-hole putting green, 24/7 fitness center, indoor swimming pool and so much more.
BUILDING A LEGACY CREATING MEMORIES
